hermione.
I did repulse him, sore amazed
At his approach.—He threaten'd with his hate,
Which I do love more than his unprized favour!
duke.
I well remember thy reproof.
duchess.
Our rebel cousin hither comes with word
Of her departure from our city.—Hence,
To-morrow, by the saffron-breaking dawn,
To Venice she returns. I urge in vain
Some further hindrance.—Wilt thou again make suit
To lady's ear, and win her stay?
duke.
To-morrow!
"Let then to-morrow come if e'er it may;
But when to-morrow comes, 'tis still to-day—
To-morrow go, and thou art never gone,
Till yon to-morrow and to-day are one!"
hermione.
I must hence:
Urge me not further.
duke.
Nay, I urge thee not.
My will in Mantua e'er was held injunction.
I'll be thy tyrant, lady—thy stern keeper.
This day, within our palace, thou shalt be,
If willing and obedient, our guest:
If stubborn and self-will'd, our prisoner!
I'll compass thee with such delicious chains,
Thou shalt not wish e'en thine own thought were free!
hermione.
Your guest this day, the last I spend in Mantua.
The night I give to Laura.
duchess.
This proud night
Shall so out-mimic day, thou shalt not guess
When night hath drawn the twilight to his bosom.
Enter Sylvio.
sylvio (aside to the duke).
The guard hath yet no tidings;
The woman hides her warily.